Echo Jury: Another defeat makes it a must-win against Reading

SIMILAR story to last week – another poor first half cost us the game, writes Jack Shields.

It’s really frustrating that we put effort in and try to play football when we are two or three goals down and chasing the game. What’s the point?

Bardsley was at fault for the third goal, and possibly the first. For me, he isn’t a good enough defender and we definitely need to look at replacing him.

Larsson made a stupid decision to dive in for the penalty and the game was over when it went to 2-0. The difference in midfield between us and Chelsea was clear to see. They passed it well, had energy and moved it into dangerous areas, whereas we were clueless in possession and too slow.

On a more positive note, I thought Wickham did well again. He has developed physically as much as he as technically and looks very strong. His hold-up play was crucial to our attacking threat.

Johnson also had one of his better games, trying to go past players and his goal was well-taken.

The overall performance wasn’t bad, it’s just a shame that we continue to give soft goals away.

The Reading game tomorrow is already a six-pointer.

To read the rest of the Echo Jury, please see tonight’s Sunderland Echo.